Send us a Text Message.Can regional cooperation bring justice for crimes committed under a dictatorship? Join us as we examine the pivotal role of ECOWAS in The Gambia’s quest for post-TRRC accountability. Our special guest, Salieu Taal, the past president of the Gambia Bar Association, offers an insider’s perspective on the collaborative efforts to establish a hybrid court addressing crimes from former President Yahya Jammeh’s 22-year regime. We highlight the collective work of local and international experts, victims' associations, and civil society in striving for justice and underline the importance of maintaining impartiality in this complex process.Explore the formation of a joint technical committee tasked with drafting a statute for a special tribunal and the substantial progress made by the Gambian government in creating an accountability mechanism for serious crimes. We'll also address the concerns raised by the ECOWAS Parliament about potential interference and the need for continued ECOWAS support to ensure the tribunal’s international integrity. Salieu Taal emphasizes the importance of ongoing victim advocacy and keeping the focus on achieving a fair and just outcome for all. Tune in to understand how international cooperation and local efforts are pivotal in shaping The Gambia's path to justice.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.What if your loved one disappeared without a trace, leaving behind a void filled with uncertainty and fear? In this gripping episode of the Victims Podcast, we invite you to listen to the powerful testimony of Muhammed Sandeng, whose father, the politician Ebrima Solo Sandeng, was extra judicially killed by The Gambia's National Intelligence Agency. Muhammed shares the harrowing details of his family's ordeal, facing threats and intimidation from state officials, and the excruciating suspense that came with the lack of information about his father's fate. Hear firsthand the emotional and psychological toll this tragedy has taken on Mohamed and his family, and his cautious optimism about the TRRC’s recommendations.The episode doesn't stop there. We delve into the broader issue of enforced disappearances in The Gambia, exploring the systemic challenges that impede justice. From the absence of strong domestic laws to the dire need for enhanced forensic capabilities, we shed light on the roadblocks victims face. Mohamed advocates for essential psycho social support and capacity building for those affected, urging the Gambian government to act. Join us in raising public awareness and understanding the profound impact of these crimes, as we discuss the slow pace of justice and the importance of holistic approaches to healing and reparations. Don't miss this compelling and heartfelt narrative on seeking justice for the disappeared.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.How does a family endure the pain of a loved one disappearing without a trace? In this heart-wrenching episode of the Victim Podcast, I, Lamin Fadera, sit down with Kaddy Cham and Mariama Fatajo to share their deeply personal and emotionally charged stories of losing their fathers under the oppressive regime of former President Yahya Jammeh in The Gambia. Listen as Kaddy recalls the tragic disappearance of her father, Ndure Cham, in 2006, and Mariama recounts the devastating kidnapping of her father, Siaka Fatajo, in 2017. Their stories highlight not only the emotional toll and the relentless pursuit of justice but also the urgent need for greater awareness and governmental action to prevent such human rights violations.Explore the bureaucratic hurdles and emotional burdens these families have faced in their desperate search for answers. Kaddy and Mariama reveal the frustrating challenges of dealing with unresponsive government bodies, and the small glimmer of hope offered by the formation of a missing person task force. Their testimonies are a poignant reminder of the personal bonds they shared with their fathers, the agony of discovering their fates, and the unyielding quest for justice and closure. Through their voices, we gain insight into the broader impact of enforced disappearances on families and communities, emphasizing the necessity of collective responsibility to ensure such atrocities never occur again.Join us as we underscore the critical need for transitional justice, the implementation of the TRRC recommendations, and governmental accountability. Kaddy and Mariama reflect on the importance of memorializing their lost loved ones and the ongoing struggle for healing in the aftermath of such profound loss. This episode is a powerful call to action, urging listeners to remember, share, and advocate for justice, so that the painful legacy of enforced disappearances does not continue to haunt future generations. Thank you for tuning in, and remember to follow, share, like, and subscribe to the Victim Podcast on social media platforms.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a deeply rooted cultural practice that has devastating consequences for young girls and women. In this episode, we sit down with Fatou Balde, CEO of Women in Liberation and Leadership, who shares her poignant personal journey as an FGM survivor. Fatou offers a profound exploration into the cultural and traditional origins of FGM in The Gambia, clearing up misconceptions about its ties to religious practices, particularly Islam. She brings to the table a compelling argument backed by data and community evidence, highlighting the severe health implications and human rights violations that FGM imposes.Our discussion moves to the complex gender dynamics that fuel the FGM debate, debunking the misleading distinction between circumcision and mutilation. Fatou passionately argues against any form of genital cutting, revealing the harmful reality faced by girls in regions where FGM is prevalent. We investigate the motivations behind parliament members and religious leaders' support for FGM under the guise of cultural acceptance, and underscore the critical need for more women in decision-making roles. By educating girls about their bodies, we aim to empower them to make informed decisions and protect their rights.The conversation doesn't stop at highlighting the issue; we delve into actionable solutions. Fatou discusses the importance of community engagement and open dialogues to dismantle the silence around FGM. We touch upon the vital role of journalists and medical professionals in raising awareness and advocating for change. Emphasis is placed on supporting FGM survivors through comprehensive services and maintaining strict laws to prevent backslides in women's rights. Join us as we champion the younger generation's potential to eradicate FGM and celebrate the tireless efforts of grassroots movements and civil society organizations in this critical fight.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Step into the heart of Gambia's political transformation as we unpack the rise and rule of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council (AFPRC). Was the military takeover in July led by Lieutenant Yaya Jammeh and his officers a step towards democracy or a detour into autocracy? Explore the pivotal moments from the 1970 constitution to the 1996 referendum and the consequential presidential election that saw Jammeh's conversion from a military leader to a civilian president. We investigate the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction's (APRC) influence in shaping Gambia's political dynamics, tackling the challenges and triumphs in the nation's path to governance and democracy.But that's not all—we'll delve into the vital work of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC), established to heal the nation’s wounds from years of political turmoil. Discover the comprehensive institutional reforms targeting state security forces, the humanitarian efforts to support those scarred by past regimes, and the bold steps taken to guarantee justice and reconciliation. Whether you’re a history buff, a political enthusiast, or someone seeking to understand Gambia's ongoing journey towards peace and stability, this episode promises a compelling and insightful narrative.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Unlock the harrowing truths behind the National Intelligence Agency's brutal operations in The Gambia from 1996 to 2016. Through torture, unlawful arrests, and enforced disappearances, the NIA operated with total impunity to ensure former President Yahya Jammeh’s iron grip on power. We dive deep into the shocking conditions at Mile 2 prison, the erosion of judicial independence, and the manipulation of court rulings by mercenary judges. This is an episode that not only recounts the atrocities but also emphasizes the urgent need for justice and reform.Discover the TRRC's comprehensive recommendations for transforming The Gambia’s future, from prosecuting NIA officials to overhauling the judicial and prison systems. We outline the government’s commitment to these reforms from 2023 to 2027, including the renaming of the NIA and significant security sector changes. Learn about the collaborative efforts of various institutions to restore human rights and accountability. This episode is a powerful testament to the resilience of a nation striving to rectify past injustices and build a fairer society.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.How did a small West African nation endure two decades of brutal political repression and find its path to justice and healing? Join us as we uncover the dark history of political persecution under Yaya Jame's regime from 1996 to 2016. In this episode, we expose the horrific realities faced by political opposition leaders, religious figures, and journalists who were subjected to unlawful arrests, torture, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings. We also delve into the specific case of the Kermot Ali village community, who were forcibly displaced due to their religious beliefs. We’ll also bring you up to speed on the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC)’s findings and the government's roadmap for addressing these injustices. Learn about the TRRC's bold recommendations, including the prosecution of key figures, legislative reforms, and the introduction of civic education programs. As we discuss the implementation period from 2023 to 2027, we'll shed light on the crucial roles that various institutions like the Ministry of Justice, the Gambia Police Force, and the Ministry of Education will play in fostering justice, reconciliation, and healing in the Gambia. Don’t miss this comprehensive overview of the TRRC’s monumental efforts to right the wrongs of the past.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Can a nation truly heal from decades of systemic abuse? Join us as we expose the harrowing findings of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) about the rampant sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) committed under former President Yahya Jammeh's regime. We uncover how national beauty pageants and the Presidential Alternative Treatment Program (PATP) served as sinister fronts for horrific abuses. Hear the stories of survival from victims who endured mistreatment not only at the hands of the former president but also through terrifying witch hunt exercises designed to punish dissenting communities.This episode doesn't just recount atrocities; it lays out a pathway to justice and reform. We discuss the TRRC's bold recommendations, including prosecuting Yahya Jammeh and his high-ranking accomplices, enforcing strict sexual abuse policies, and implementing comprehensive training for law enforcement and healthcare workers. Learn about the steps the Gambian government is taking to end the stigma and protect victims' rights, ensuring that such heinous acts are never repeated. Listen in to understand the scope of these crimes and the urgent need for systemic change in The Gambia from 1994 to 2016.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.We honor the memory of the fallen and shine a light on the unheeded cries for justice in a pivotal moment of The Gambia's history—the student protest of April 10 and 11, 2000. Our discussion exposes the harrowing crackdown that led to 12 lost lives and countless injuries, all in the wake of peaceful demands for accountability over the death and assault of young students by state security agents. The recent findings from the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) are at the forefront of our conversation, as we consider the government's acceptance of the commission's recommendations for justice and reform.As we navigate through the TRRC's crucial proposals, we uncover the layers of accountability that need to be addressed, from the prosecution of officials, including the former president, to the pressing need for improved security force training in crowd control. We also evaluate the designated institutions like the National Youth Council and Ministry of Education, tasked with breathing life into these recommendations by 2027. This episode is dedicated to reflecting on the past to safeguard the future, ensuring that the voices of The Gambia's youth are heard and that a tragedy of this magnitude never repeats itself.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Unlock the secrets behind the government's white paper with us in collaboration with    the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ) and partners. We promise that by the end of our series, you'll have a solid grasp on the critical steps toward justice and healing for those impacted by conflict and rights violations. This isn't just another discussion; it's a journey through the heart of transitional justice, meticulously pieced together to help you understand the layers that form the blueprint for societal repair.With every episode, we'll step into the stories that matter, guided by the ICTJ's unparalleled knowledge. We're not just sharing information; we're honoring the pursuit of redress and accountability. Follow our series as we chart the course of transformative recommendations and witness the unwavering power of communities rising from the ashes of their past. It's not merely about the facts and figures; it's about the people, the pain, and the promise of a better tomorrow. Stay connected and be part of a conversation that's reshaping the landscape of justice and reconciliation.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

Send us a Text Message.Could you imagine a government's unchecked power leading to a saga of human rights abuses? Uncover the harrowing truth as we examine The Gambia's struggle with such a past. This episode takes you through the rocky journey from the 1994 military coup to the relentless rule of President Yaya Jammeh. We dissect the grim findings of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission, including enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings. This isn't just history; it's a lesson in the resilience of a nation seeking justice and accountability.Listen as we discuss the ambitious roadmap laid out by The Gambia, targeting sweeping reforms from 2023 to 2027. We cut through the legal jargon to bring you the essence of the TRRC's recommendations, from prosecuting the guilty to overhauling the nation's security apparatus. Human rights, the rule of law, and a commitment to never repeating the mistakes of the past take center stage in this compelling narrative. With voices from the ground, experts, and those who lived through the ordeal, this episode promises an unflinching look at The Gambia's quest to reconcile its dark history with a more just future.Support the Show.Host - Isatou , Fatou and Lamin

My name is Kemo Touray, and I am a victim of the events that occurred on May 9, 2016. On that fateful day, my brother and I were apprehended near the pipeline and subsequently taken to the Police Intervention Unit (PIU). The PIU was filled with numerous individuals who, like me, had been arrested. It was a distressing sight, with elderly people and injured individuals among us. The police officers at the PIU treated us with contempt, hurling insults at us without restraint.After our time at the PIU, we were herded into a truck and transported to Macarthy, located in the Central River Region. Detained there, I endured 52 days of harsh and inhumane treatment. At the detention center, members of the National Intelligence Agency interrogated us. Their line of questioning revolved around our political affiliations and tribal background, although I considered these inquiries irrelevant and unnecessary. Once the questioning concluded, we were all transported to Mile 11 prisons, joining the others who had been arrested alongside us.In addition to the physical and emotional hardships endured during those 52 days of detention, the aftermath of the May 9, 2016 events took a severe toll on us, both individually and as a community. Financially, the impact was devastating. As a result of the arrest and subsequent detention, I lost my business, which was completely destroyed during my absence. Many others faced similar circumstances, with their livelihoods shattered and their means of income abruptly severed. The financial burdens imposed upon us further compounded our already dire circumstances, leaving us grappling with uncertainty and despair.Moreover, the repercussions of the events subjected us to societal marginalization and a loss of respect within our communities. The label of being associated with the events of May 9, 2016, cast a shadow over our reputations. People labeled us as radicals or troublemakers, without considering the circumstances that led to our arrest or the injustices we suffered. The lack of understanding and empathy from society only deepened our feelings of isolation and made the process of rebuilding our lives even more arduous.For a period of eight months, life was nothing short of hellish. The cumulative impact of financial loss, shattered businesses, social ostracism, and the trauma of detention created a bleak and challenging existence for us all. Every day was a struggle, both to survive physically and to maintain hope in the face of seemingly insurmountable adversity.It is essential that our stories are heard and acknowledged, not only to shed light on the injustices we endured but also to seek redress and work towards preventing such violations from occurring in the future. The road to recovery may be long and arduous, but through collective efforts, support, and recognition, we can begin to heal and rebuild our lives.Support the showHost - Isatou and Fatou

Behind the Curtain: A Search for Answers on the First Enforced disappearance after 22 Years of Dictatorship - Mariama Fatajo Host - Isatou and Fatou

The views of former chairman of TANGO on the implementation of the TRRCs report - John Charles NjiegHost - Isatou and Fatou

The Importance of Women Participation in the Transitional Justice Process- Yadicon Njie Eribo Host - Isatou and Fatou

Tuti Nyang is a Gender consultant working with the International Center for Transitional Justice in the Gambia. Host - Isatou and Fatou

Episode 3 Host - Isatou and Fatou